England - London • TMT (technology, media and telecoms)
Bird & Bird LLP
The ‘fantastic’ team at Bird & Bird LLP advises on the use of AI and the protection and exploitation of clients’ digital assets, alongside a particular focus in the media, entertainment and sports arenas. The contentious trade mark and litigation practice, spearheaded by Peter Brownlow, is routinely involved in high-profile disputes, such as leading litigation strategy for Merck KGaA. Rebecca O’Kelly Gillard co-leads the firm’s international copyright and design group, and is well-versed in trade mark and copyright issues that have a digital or online focus. Tom Snaith and Robert Williams also lead this ’quality’ practice. Phil Sherrell’s capabilities encompass litigation relating to content and brands, while Ewan Grist routinely assists clients with complex litigation, with notable expertise in protecting and enforcing innovative or high-tech product design and associated branding. Associate Louise Sargeant’s strengths include brand protection strategies and enforcement, and advising on ownership issues, among others.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The team were fantastic, always on hand to offer advice and the next best steps forward when looking for solutions to the issue.'
- 'Communication was always very clear and concise.’
‘Thomas Hooper was the main point of contact and he worked tirelessly to resolve the issue.'
- 'The communication was always professional, but also a friendly environment to express any thoughts towards the case.’
‘Quality all the way through the team.’
‘Sector leaders. Great partners with hands on experience of the market. Quality associates at every level.’
‘The team is very knowledgeable, has broad expertise, and is quick to respond.’
‘Thomas Hooper is a rising star. He has great instincts and is very conscientious. He is a pleasure to work with.’
Key clients
- Lidl
- Merck KGaA
- Epic Games
- TuneIn
- Crypto Open Patent Alliance (COPA)
- Cisco Systems, Inc
- Voyetra Turtle Beach
- Estate of James Joyce
- International Olympic Committee (IOC)
- Betafence
- Chanel
- Masimo Corporation (Masimo)
- Patricia Pasqualini Literary Agency
Work highlights
- Representing Crypto Open Patent Alliance (COPA) in a high-profile copyright claim around who created Bitcoin.
- Representing Lidl in its high-profile litigation against Tesco, concerning Tesco’s use of its Clubcard logo.
- Representing TuneIn in both first instance and on appeal. Currently in its damages enquiry phase, of which will have a significant impact to the music industry.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading individuals
Next Generation Partners
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Rebecca O’Kelly-Gillard, Tom Snaith, Rob Williams